Movies: “The LEGO Movie 2” Goes Where No Brick Has Gone Before

Not long ago in a town called Bricksburg, a super-friendly, upbeat and endlessly optimistic guy named Emmet rose from a most ordinary life to become The Special in the mega-hit animated adventure “The LEGO Movie.” Overcoming his doubts and an apparent lack of any notable skills or experience, this LEGO minifigure in the bright orange vest bravely followed his destiny to become a Master Builder and—with the help of his friends—saved the city, won Lucy’s heart and helped make “Everything is Awesome” an irresistible dance-party singalong the world over.

Movie News: “BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY” SING-ALONG VERSION IN CINEMAS STARTING NOVEMBER 14

Ready your vocal chords once again to the beat of the legendary  songs of Queen as the lyrics are about to be flashed this time on the silver screen of your choice.  The part biopic, part concert “Bohemian Rhapsody” movie that continues to rock worldwide audiences will have a sing-along version starting November 14 in local (PH) cinemas.



A 20th Century Fox presentation, now playing in PH cinemas, “Bohemian Rhapsody is the story of how Freddie Mercury and his fellow band members Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon formed Queen – one of the most iconic rock groups of all time. The film follows Queen as they produce hit after hit, topping the charts while constantly evolving their sound. Through disparate songs like Killer Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are the Champions, We Will Rock You and countless others, the band reaches unparalleled success and Freddie becomes one of the most beloved entertainers on the planet.



               Check out the following cinemas and book your tickets in advance for an unprecedented “Bohemian Rhapsody” cine-oke experience:

ALABANG TOWN CENTER

AYALA CIRCUIT

AYALA CLOVERLEAF

AYALA FELIZ

AYALA SOLENAD

AYALA SOUTHPARK

AYALA VERTIS

BONIFACIO HIGH STREET

FAIRVIEW TERRACES

GLORIETTA 4

GREENBELT 3

MARKET-MARKET

THE 30TH

TRINOMA

U.P. TOWN CENTER

S' MAISON  

SM ANGONO

SM AURA

SM BACOOR

SM BALIWAG

SM BF

SM BICUTAN

SM CALAMBA

SM CENTERPOINT

SM DASMARIÑAS

SM EAST ORTIGAS

SM FAIRVIEW

SM LIPA

SM MALL OF ASIA

SM MANILA

SM MARILAO

SM MARIKINA

SM MASINAG

SM MEGAMALL

SM MOLINO

SM MUNTINLUPA

SM NOVALICHES

SM ROSARIO

SM SAN JOSE

SM SAN LAZARO

SM SAN MATEO

SM SANGANDAAN

SM SOUTHMALL

SM STA. ROSA

SM SUCAT

SM TRECE

SM VALENZUELA

THE BLOCK

WALTERMART CALAMBA

WALTERMART MAKATI

WALTERMART PLARIDEL

WALTERMART STA. MARIA



ROBINSONS ANTIPOLO

ROBINSONS DASMARIÑAS

ROBINSONS ERMITA

ROBINSONS GALLERIA

ROBINSONS GENERAL TRIAS

ROBINSONS IMUS

ROBINSONS LAS PIÑAS

ROBINSONS LIPA

ROBINSONS MAGNOLIA

ROBINSONS MALOLOS

ROBINSONS METRO EAST

ROBINSONS PIONEER

ROBINSONS STA. ROSA



POWERPLANT

THEATERMALL

STA. LUCIA EAST

ALIMALL

FISHER MALL

GATEWAY

 HARBOR POINT

MARQUEE ANGELES

SM BATANGAS

SM CABANATUAN 

SM CLARK

SM LUCENA

SM PAMPANGA

SM SAN PABLO

SM TELABASTAGAN

MEGACENTER CABANATUAN

WALTERMART TANAUAN

ROBINSONS ANGELES

ROBINSONS STARMILLS



ABREEZA DAVAO

AYALA CENTER CEBU

CENTRIO CAGAYAN

SM BACOLOD

SM CAGAYAN

SM CAGAYAN DOWNTOWN

SM CEBU

SM CONSOLACION

SM DAVAO

SM ILOILO

SM LANANG

SM SEASIDE CEBU

ROBINSONS BACOLOD

ROBINSONS GALLERIA CEBU

ROBINSONS ILOILO

ROBINSONS JARO ILOILO

ROBINSONS PAVIA ILOILO

ROBINSONS TAGUM



NCCC BUHANGIN

GAISANO CINEPLEX CEBU

GAISANO DAVAO

Movies: Davao Artist Wins Global “Venom” Poster Art Competition

MANILA, October 01, 2018 -- Jeuz Sumangil, a Filipino student from Davao bested over 3,600 artists from all over the world to emerge as one of the five grand winners in Talenthouse’s “Venom” alternative poster competition.

The global contest was a collaboration between Talenthouse, a prestigious online community of creators and art appreciators and the Venom Team led by actor Tom Hardy who stars in the film as Eddie Brock/Venom.  Hardy himself selected the final five winners, the four coming from the US, Japan, Indonesia and Ecuador.

Sumangil, a 22-year-old AB Multimedia Arts student from the University of Mindanao, will receive US $2,000 for his victory.

Get to know the budding artist as he talks about the contest in the following interview.

Movies: Halloween Comes Alive In First Trailer Of “Goosebumps 2”

It only comes one night a year.  Watch the first trailer of Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween  now and check out the film in Philippine cinemas this October.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/AHenln_gnfA

Halloween comes to life in a brand-new, family adventure comedy based on R.L. Stine’s 400-million-selling series of books.

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween is directed by Ari Sandel from a screenplay by Rob Lieber, based on the Goosebumps Books by R.L. Stine.
   
The cast is comprised by Wendi McLendon-Covey, Madison Iseman, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Caleel Harris, Chris Parnell and Ken Jeong.

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Movie: “Wonder Woman's” Gal Gadot Greets Fans From Philippines

Warner Bros. Pictures has released a short video of Gal Gadot greeting her Filipino fans as she
invited them to watch her film, “Wonder Woman” in Philippine cinemas June 1, 2017.

Check out the video at https://youtu.be/NyPpC5dBGE4.

“Mabuhay, Philippines!,” starts the Israeli actress in the video.

Movie Review: Alien: Covenant

So "Alien: Covenant" (2017) is a direct sequel to "Prometheus" (2012) that leads to the classic cult film Alien (1979) but before your head explodes (pun intended) from the confusion (pun intended), you can relax knowing that Covenant does a good job of guiding the audience from the events of Prometheus (which happens ten years before Covenant) to a juicy new chapter in the "Alien" franchise. 

The film opens with Micheal Fassbender's David, a synthetic, or an android discussing questions of existence and the meaning of life with his creator; Peter Weyland . 

Annoyed by David's seemingly never ending question, Weyland orders him to bring him tea, in effect putting the android in his place. 

Movie Review: Chips

What you see is what you get in the Dax Shepard written, directed and starred in adult comedy, which is a spiced up version of the 70's TV show. The buddy cop comedy pushes the envelope with its racy themes and content - which includes (but is not limited to) - nudity, sex, violence and penis jokes, a lot of penis jokes. Which is probably why I think that "Chips" is really a guy's movie. 

The husband certainly enjoyed it more than I did and like I said in a separate post that this is every guys chance to get back at their girlfriends for dragging them---err making them watch "50 Shades Darker". 

"Chips" is the ultimate testosterone fueled buddy cop comedy which will have you laughing out loud with your movie date (whether that would be a reluctant girlfriend or the whole crew for a boys night out.)  

While the formula is nothing new as it follows the tried and tested buddy cop formula, "Chips" pushes the envelope with its adult content, hence the R-16 rating. 

I was actually expecting more action scenes and death-defying motorcycle sequences. 

"That's funny coming from someone who doesn't like motorcycles and doesn't ride them". Paul pointed out.

Yeah - well that doesn't mean that I can't appreciate some edge of your seat stunts right? 
  

Despite the formula comedy film, the performances of Micheal Peña, whom we just all fell in love with as Luis in "Ant-Man" and Dax Shepard must be commended. 

Good job to this hilarious dynamic duo! 

A special shout out to Vincent D'Onofrio, who plays the big, baddie in the film. We love him as Wilson Fisk (Kingpin) in Netflix's "Daredevil". It was amusing to see him in a comedic role. 

5.5/10 you will LOL for sure with "Chips" and there's a special surprise for fans of the original series too! 

"Chips" is now showing in cinemas! 

#ChipHappens 

Movies: Members Of Section 9 In “Ghost In The Shell” Revealed

In the future of Paramount Pictures' cyberpunk thriller Ghost in the Shell, criminals can not only get into your bank account, they can access your memories and control your behavior. Policing these cyber-terrorists requires a new kind of law enforcement. The elite Section 9 anti-terrorism squad is comprised of some of the world’s most technologically enhanced people, including Major (Scarlett Johansson).

(Watch the Section 9 featurette at http://youtu.be/dost604rDXU.)

“In a world where information is king, the key to survival is protecting privacy,” explains producer Michael Costigan. “That’s where Section 9 comes in.”

The equivalent of an elite SEAL team that deals in urban cyber terror, members of Section 9 have been chosen for their unique skill sets and specific enhancements. “We put together a phenomenal group to play this rough-and-tumble, ragtag team,” says producer Jeffrey Silver. “They each bring incredible energy. They’re internationally based and very exciting to watch in action.”

Movie Review: Arrival

ARRIVAL - is a masterful sci-fi movie which makes a badass out of linguistic expert Louise Banks (Amy Adams) as she tries to communicate with aliens who have landed on Earth-and she must do it before time runs out. The film is an intriguing puzzle, hidden behind layers and layers of little clues, which makes it fun to solve as you go along in the movie. Once you come to the culmination, it is an overwhelming feeling of world politics and personal struggles. Director Denis Villeneuve creates a movie experience you should not miss. Truly deserving of all its accolades. 

-is what I wrote weeks ago as a requested short reaction after the film's press screening (yes, we have those). Unfortunately I haven's been able to follow it up with a full review. Not because I didn't like the movie - on the contrary - I loved it! And I just hate myself for the delay in the review as it does a great disservice to the film. 

You see the baby in my belly has been very demanding on the number of hours of sleep I get (yeah, right blame it on the baby) but seriously, I can no longer do my 5-6 hours of sleep on the weekdays and I literally spend my weekends sleeping (no kidding). 

I've finally worked up the strength to get off my butt and to actually do some writing - so here I am telling you dear reader that Denis Villenueve's "Arrival" is indeed worthy of all the praises and raves it has been receiving. 

Aliens have arrived on Earth in twelve giant spheres scattered across the world, the Army asks the help of Dr. Banks to study the language of the aliens and to translate for them. It may seem an absurd request but Louise is up to the task. They arrive at one of the twelve 'shells' in Montana where Louise works with a team, along with Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner) - a scientist.  

Louise and Ian work tirelessly to come to understand the inhabitants of their 'shell' two giant squid-like aliens with seven legs, earning the name "Heptapods", Louise and Ian name their Heptapods 'Abbot' and 'Costello'. While working on understanding aliens is hard enough, there is an incredible pressure in a global political level since other countries are also dealing with their own shells and heptapods and of course as nations are tend to be known - each nation was keeping their own studies and discoveries to themselves. As if a possible alien invasion is not reason enough for human kind to put their differences aside and work together right? 

What I liked best about the "Independence Day" movies is the part where all countries get together to help each other beat the bad aliens and in "Arrival" we don't see that as each country is still looking for their own interests. 

In a race against time and with the fate of the human race on the edge, Louise finds something deep inside of her, a power she does not know she has, to unravel a great mystery. To reveal anything more about the movie would rob the viewer of the pleasure of enjoying the movie. All I have to say is that - it is a film which will have you thinking, the good kind of thinking. 


8.5 out of 10. What makes "Arrival" stand out from other Science Fiction movies is its deep rooted connection to very human themes that you can't help but feel that overwhelming feeling inside you. That despite advances in science and technology, it is human nature which pulls you in to  be lost in the incredible performance of Amy Adams whose strength comes in her perseverance hidden behind her being seemingly-delicate nature. 

MOVIES: A FATHER’S JOURNEY TO FORGIVENESS IN “THE SHACK”

Sam Worthington, known for his global hit epic adventure movies such as “Avatar” and “Clash of The Titans” leads the audience in his latest exciting inspirational journey in “The Shack”.  The movie is based on the phenomenally successful novel “The Shack” by author William P. Young and is a profoundly inspirational story about the resiliency of the human spirit amongst unimaginable loss, as a grieving father faces the hardest decision of his life — to forgive the unforgivable.

From all appearances, Mackenzie Phillips (Sam Worthington) seems to have a good life; three great kids, a beautiful wife, lovely home — nothing seems amiss.  But, when Mack takes the kids for an overnight camping trip, what starts out as a fun getaway soon turns into a parent’s most horrifying nightmare — his youngest daughter, Missy, is abducted from their campsite and her body is never recovered.

As Mack struggles to make sense of such enormous tragedy, he descends into a “great sadness” where his life starts to unravel and all the ghosts that he thought he had buried long ago, resurface and push him to the edge of a precipice. It is at this time, at his darkest hour, that Mack receives a mysterious note in his mailbox with an invitation from God to meet at the shack—the place where Missy’s bloody dress was found. In a desperate attempt to find closure and answers to his daughter’s murder, Mack heads back into the Oregon wilderness to confront the killer or God…or both.

Movie Review: The Lego Batman Movie

There are a but a few iconic characters who have stood the test of time, have had countless incarnations and is beloved by generations-and Batman is without a doubt one of them. 

Created by Bob Kane and  Bill Finger and making his debut in 1939- that's 78 years ago! Bruce Wayne's alter-ego is one of the most recognized characters in history. So much so that we have even attributed the saying "Bahala na si Batman" in our colloquial language to him.  The saying of course, is often used when all hope is lost and only someone as awesome as Batman can get you out of impossible situations. 

So it was no doubt that Lego Batman (voiced  by Will Arnett) became a fan favorite, fans loved him, ego and metal music and all, despite his minor role in the (2014) hit "The Lego Movie" and it was a no brainer that the caped crusader would soon be the lead of his own Lego Movie thus the "The Lego Batman Movie". 

In following with the now tradition of Lego Movies' of out of this world, in your face humor, "The Lego Batman Movie" is unlike any Batman movie-ever. It is one which children will enjoy and adults (no matter the age) will love as well.

From the first seconds of the movie (yes, even the logos) to the last second it is one whirlwind ride of laughs and tugging at heart strings, playing on the Batman lore and legend, giving nods to the long legacy that is Batman, whether in the comic books, the Television shows or the movies. 

Will Arnet's Batman is unapologetic in taking jabs at characters within the DC Universe and even characters that are not in their property - oh yes, they went there and it was hilarious. I swear, we were laughing so hard in the cinema, I think we were the loudest in there. 

I think what I liked best about the movie is that, yes you expect the film to be hilarious but what I did not expect was the surprise lessons that even the Dark Knight has to learn and they were some really emotional moments in the film and no, its not just the pregnancy hormones but you know I really felt for Batman. His reluctance of working in a team, his fear of being part of a family, all of it really pulls at you but of course its a Lego Movie so its still funny how everything falls together.  

I will also have to say, that the surprise look into the Joker and Batman "relationship" just had me cracked up laughing. These two have a very complicated hero-enemy "thing" going on and it was hilarious to look at it from a different angle. Really-my tummy was hurting from all the laughing. I would have wanted a crazier Zach Galifianakis as the Joker but was very happy with Micheal Cera's Robin. I was very much impressed with the voice work that he did. He does not sound like himself at all! 

Lego Alfred (Ralph Fiennes), is also my favorite Alfred-ever!!! 

The whole movie is filled with an all star cast of voices, that you would just geek over, trying to figure out, who is voicing who. 

Speaking of geeking out-there are also dozens of amazing cameos in the film, and we're not just talking about DC characters (wink, wink). 

8/10 The Lego Batman Movie is a treasure trove of super hero and pop culture references that every geek would love. It is a crazy, hilarious adventure as expected with some warm hugs here and there. 

MOVIE: THE VENGEFUL GHOST COMES AT YOU IN “RINGS” PAYOFF POSTER

The main poster for Paramount Pictures' suspense thriller Rings, has just been released – showing the malevolent female ghost emerging from the haunted TV set. The ominous tagline “Evil is Reborn” hints at a new beginning.

Rings is a new chapter in the beloved RING horror franchise. A young woman (Matilda Lutz) becomes worried about her boyfriend (Alex Roe) when he explores a dark subculture surrounding a mysterious videotape said to kill the watcher seven days after he has viewed it. She sacrifices herself to save her boyfriend and in doing so makes a horrifying discovery: there is a “movie within the movie” that no one has ever seen before…

Directed by F. Javier Gutierrez (Before the Fall), Rings stars Matilda Lutz, Alex Roe, Johnny Galecki, Aimee Teegarden and Bonnie Morgan.

Opening across the Philippines on February 22, Rings is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Movie Review: xXx: THE RETURN OF XANDER CAGE

I'm probably not the best person to be doing a review on xXx: The Return of Xander Cage, for one I don't really follow the franchise, and two I'm not really a big fan of Vin Diesel, but if you are  looking for high octane - action packed film, then "The Return of Xander Cage" delivers.

Mixing extreme sports with stop-the-bad guys, save-the-world missions. Xander Cage is back in the game after a rogue team of incredibly skilled individuals led by the (very) awesome Donnie Yen, steal "Pandora's Box" a device which can control satellites orbiting the Earth and turning them into instant bombs (you know when they crash into Earth & explode and everything).

Enter Xander Cage to save the day! - With his very own super team of xXx agents.

MOVIES: HK SUPERSTAR ANDY LAU, A WAR STRATEGIST IN “THE GREAT WALL”

After starring in Zhang Yimou's dazzling, award-winning romantic adventure House of Flying Daggers in 2004, Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau now reunites with the director for Universal Pictures and Legendary Pictures' epic fantasy The Great Wall.

Lau is one of Hong Kong’s most commercially successful film actors, performing in more than 140 projects since the 1980s. Voted the No. 1 box-office star of Hong Kong for decades, he truly deserves the moniker of superstar of the Chinese cinema.

In the filml, when a mercenary warrior (Matt Damon) is imprisoned within The Great Wall, he discovers the mystery behind one of the greatest wonders of our world. As wave after wave of marauding beasts, intent on devouring the world, besiege the massive structure, his quest for fortune turns into a journey toward heroism as he joins a huge army of elite warriors to confront this unimaginable and seemingly unstoppable force.

Lau plays Strategist Wang, perhaps the smartest guy in the movie. “He’s got these incredible inventions and is the brains behind The Nameless Order,” remarks co-star Matt Damon. “He’s somebody that my character, William, cottons to, and has a great deal of respect for.”

My Top 10 Movies of 2015

Movie Time! Used my movie passes to screenings plus Popcorn! Pretzel and Marshmallows for this photo. Hey gotta have yummy snacks while watching a movie right?!

I keep all my passes in a special box. I love going through them from time to time. 

In the middle of 2015, one of the best things happened to me. I was suddenly swept in the beautiful and exciting world of getting to promote and review movies through the the blog. I found myself in the company of passionate and hardworking cinephiles and movie bloggers who live and breathe films. 

It was (and still is,) very intimidating. As I am writing this, most of my movie blogger colleagues have already come up with their Top 10 Movies of 2015, days ago! While little old me is just starting. 

Trust me, it was only work and being physically incapable (I have just recently been healed of a nasty flu) that has kept me from working on this list. Not to mention, the grueling holidays and working on those said holidays. (See below for a detailed run-down of my flu & work filled 'holidays') 

December 24 - SICK (still spent Christmas with family) 

December 25 - SICK (still spent Christmas with family)

December 26 - Wedding Coverage + Tricot Show (still sick)

December 30 - Holiday for most but WORK for me.

December 31 - Holiday for most but WORK for me.

It's the early morning of January 2, 2016, (I spent the first day of the new year sleeping and eating, which is not a good start of the year for my waist line) and I am now only just writing my first ever Top 10 Movies of the Year post. 

I know that I still have a long way to go in this 'reviewing movies' business but I also know that I will definitely have a lot of opportunities to grow and become a better critic, with the many amazing movies coming out in 2016. Plus, being around hard working cinephiles and my Tito David (who I look up to), though we only see each other up to three times a year, we always find ourselves in intense conversations about the latest movies we've seen or current TV shows we're watching. And yes-in case you're wondering he is that Palanca Award winner, David Hontiveros. I know I don't have much 'street cred' as him in writing movie reviews but I have every intention of being a full-fledged and credible movie critic. One that my Uncle would be proud of (Hey! That's my Niece!) 

Yes, 2016 movies I'm looking at you! All you gloriously promising movies that make me physically shudder every time I think of all of you...but before I get lost in anticipation for 2016, let me take you on a quick review of the year that was in movies. 

Here's my Top 10 Movies of 2015! 

1. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Okay. Okay. I know this one is super biased since I have so many emotional ties to the movie. Growing up with Luke and Darth Vader being household names, the Star Wars Christmas Soundtrack (yes, there is such a thing with C3-P0 singing Christmas songs) was a staple every Christmas lunch. What with it being a favorite of my Dad, who sadly passed away when I was 10 and didn't get to see his favorite return in all it's glory. But isn't that one of the magic and powers of movies? It makes you into an emotional wreck, and for a couple of hours you are lost in a whole new world. A highly anticipated movie, which was worth ALL THE HYPE! And has now new generations of fans following it's story. The Force has awakened, the future is secure. 

For a full review click here. 

2. The Man From U.N.C.L.E. 

Based on the 60's TV show, of the same name. Guy Ritchie's 'The Man From U.N.C.L.E.' is a colorful, hilarious and stylish fun filled ride from start to finish. 

Did I mention there are gorgeous eye-candies worth drooling over? 

Movie Review here. 

3. The Walk 

A cinematic experience you shouldn't miss out, based on an incredible true story, no less. 

Plus Robert Zemeckis and Joseph Gordon Levitt! What more can you ask for?! 

Movie Review here. 

4. The Martian 

Read the book. Loved the book. Loved the movie. 

Book Review here. Movie Review here. 

5. Jurassic World 

I was one of those kids who grew up, having the irrational fear of a T-Rex eating through the roof a Comfort Room, exposing a helpless you while you're answering Natures Call. 'When you gotta go. You gotta go.' Watching the original Jurassic Park trilogy growing up, made the follow-up Jurassic World, a must see. Good thing it had all those good old feels and a whole lot of new bad ass dinosaurs. A theme park with live, genetically modified dinosaurs will never be on the bucket list. 

Movie Review here. 

The Guy Beside Me Ran from Ayala Ave. to Megamall to catch the Gala Premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Did that catch your attention? Well, I had to come up with a 'Wait-What?!' title, given that the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Gala Premiere was already a few weeks ago, December 15, at the IMAX in Megamall, to be exact. This post comes in really late, since I got caught up in the holidays, and of course The Force Awakens itself. I was also (still am) actually, sick and took a few weeks of writing. This is the first post I'm writing, after said short break.  

As the year draws to a close, I can easily tell you that attending the gala premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens is easily one of the highlights of my 2015. It is indeed one of the most anticipated premieres in recent memory and I am very fortuante (and grateful) to have been on of the chosen few to have been in attendance. 

Our own Gala Premiere might not have had the big name Hollywood actors and actresses who star in the movie but we have the Pinoy 501st and Fight Saber Philippines to add a little spice to the screening. 

As I entered the mall, I could hear the entire Star Wars soundtrack playing over the mall speakers. Yup. It wasn't Christmas songs but it was the whole (freaking) soundtrack playing! Honestly, I cried a bit as I head the familiar John Williams score playing. Little did I know it was just the first few tears I would shed that night. (Force Awakens Review here)

    

Despite the heavy rain and traffic which surrounded the Metro that night, faithful fans braved the inevitable challenge of travelling to SM Megamall in Ortigas. 

I left two hours earlier in anticipation of the traffic. The guy seated beside me in the theater (and I kid you not), ran, yes, ran from Ayala Ave. all the way to Megamall! Traffic was so bad and he couldn't get a ride through Uber that he did the unthinkable. As he was telling me his story, he was placing his wet clothes (he got drenched in the rain) in a bag. He had to purchase new clothes when he got to the mall. I overheard him telling his friends that 'It was the Force compelling him to run' -Hey! A great story he can tell his kids someday right? 

Before the premiere, guests were treated to an awesome light saber duel from Fight Saber Philippines, who have been busy, weeks and days leading up to the premiere (and even after, with all the blocked screenings) performing at events for fans. Of course the Pinoy 501st also went trooping and had photos taken with fans. I did an interview with my cousin of sorts, Luis who is a part of the Pinoy 501st, you can read it here.  When I did the interview, back in 2012, the 501st were still an Outpost, they have since then become a Garrison the upgrade due to an increase in number of members. 

From their Facebook page, The Philippine Garrison 'The 501st Legion is a non-profit organization that uses its time and effort doing charity and volunteer work'. 

Hosts and Big Star Wars fans themselves: Chico and Gino.
 I've been a fan, so it was a thrill to see them host. :) 

Another thing, I will never forget about the premiere was getting to watch the movie, with fellow fans who 'Ohhhhh' and 'Ahhhhhhh' d at all the right queues and moments. A light saber salute at the end of movie, just made things even more memorable. 

I've already seen The Force Awakens two times, and I'm looking forward to my third time :) 

What a great memory I plan on holding on too :) 

Can't wait  to see what Episode XIII has in store for all of us! 

Micheal V. poses with members of the Fight Saber Philippines after the premiere. 

(c) All photos are from the official Star Wars PH Facebook page.

Thank you Disney for the invite :)

The Good Dinosaur: A Beautiful Story in a Beautiful Landscape

Disney-Pixar does it again! 

In their latest full length feature, Disney-Pixar have yet again created another heart warming film which will have you wiping away tears and being filled with that fuzzy feeling that only they can make you feel. 

In a world where the comet did not hit the earth and the dinosaurs did not go extinct is a timid Apatosaurus named Arlo.   

Arlo is the runt of the litter, you would say, he is smaller than his brother and sister and in a world where dinosaurs work as farmers and ranchers it's easy to fall behind when you are as timid (and let's say a bit of a wuss - really) like Arlo. And in harsh and constantly changing environment it will be hard to survive. 

Which is what happens to Arlo when he is separated from his home and family. Arlo must find his courage as he travels through dangerous terrain and meets a colorful cast of creatures who in one way or another, help Arlo grow. 

Spot, a human boy is an unlikely friend who helps Arlo the most in his adventure. Spot helps Arlo find the courage to be the dinosaur he was meant to be.  

It is worth mentioning that the landscapes and beautiful terrain used in the film is the most beautiful yet. From lush green fields, to snow capped mountains, to crystal clear lakes to a field of bright emerald fireflies, Pixar pushes the envelope with the magic that they bring to the screen. Everything is so beautiful, it's worth becoming your computer's wallpaper.   

Of course, more than just the exquisite setting, The Good Dinosaur is a coming-of-age story of a dinosaur and his boy. As they remind audiences through their adventures that love and friendship is a transcending force so strong, it knows no boundaries. 

I cried a lot while watching the movie (surprise, surprise) it's really a tear jerker, some grown ups in the press screening were brave enough to admit that they did cry. So just bring the tissues just in case.   

Parents may need to explain some interesting scenes in the film to their kids though (SPOILER) there's this psychedelic scene where Arlo and Spot get high on some bad fruit. While it was hilarious for us adults, the kids might not get it. Don't know how you'll explain that to your kids though.    

10 out of 10 Stars! The Good Dinosaur is a beautiful story of finding the courage in each one of us to face the unknown in our lives and the importance of the people; our family and friends who helped us find that courage.

In case you missed it there's a widespread #FindArlo media campaign across Southeast Asia and we need everyone's help to find him! You can read more in the blog post here!   

Opening across the Philippines on Nov. 25, “The Good Dinosaur” is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International through Columbia Pictures. Follow the official social media accounts of Disney in the Philippines, namely, (FB) WaltDisneyStudiosPH, (Twitter) @disneystudiosph and (Instagram) @waltdisneystudiosph and use the hashtag #GoodDinoPH.

Mockingjay Part 2: Ends in a Glorious Blaze

As the final chapter of the movie adaptation of Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games series comes to a close; I can't help but feel as if the end of an era has come to pass-and ladies and gentlemen, it does not disappoint. 

From someone who has read the books, Mockingjay Part 2 was a well adapted movie. If you can re-watch Part 1 (or even yet the entire series), you really should. It will definitely help get your head "back in the game" (pun intended).  

The movie opens with an injured Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) as she comes to terms with what the Capitol has done with Peeta (Josh Hutcherson). The rebel forces are making their move towards the Capitol and Katniss finds herself in the heart of the battle as she dangerously inches her way to killing the evil that is President Snow (Donald Sutherland). 

Director Francis Lawerence pushes the envelope in the last movie as disturbing images and questions on morality are presented to the audience. Mockingjay Part 2 has become more than the Young Adult Dystopian, its predecessors initially were. It has become a reality check on the truth & cruelty of war. As I was watching the movie I was rather emotional, with my thoughts on the recent events in our world, which has left so many innocent lives lost and the seeds of hatred sown. 

There were so many lines in the film that could fit in the context of the events in the news, I can't help get goosebumps. I came to the realization that in war, it doesn't matter whether it is in history books or in non-fiction books, in war, we all loose something, even the 'victors'.  

There are a lot of things to reflect on in the themes of the movie, but it doesn't lack in the high-octane action and suspense (which the movies are well known for) as well. If you think that the challenges in the arena were disturbing-Katniss et al face even more frightening forces. 

I love that the local distributors of the film (Pioneer /Viewer's Choice Philippines) chose to align early promotions of the movie with our upcoming National Elections. I hope that the Political angles of the film would resonate to the viewers; especially to the youth, that they may become more active and more involved with political concerns, as well as take their social responsibility to heart.

Mockingjay Part 2 takes a closer look at the political themes of the story, it makes the audiences think and as I've written on the blog before, I appreciate movies  like that.  

Early Promotions from Viewer's Choice Philippines aligning Mockingjay Part 2 with the upcoming National Elections. 

Looking back as to what I've written so far, I feel as if I've written an essay for class but I can't help but have these thoughts and feelings. I just hope that somehow the viewers would not only see the movie as a form of entertainment but a film with relevant themes, resounding during these trying times.    

Now, dear reader if you will oblige me to put on my 'movie critic hat' and continue I will be more than grateful. 

9 out of 10 stars - Mockingjay Part 2 is a powerful culmination to the franchise. Sitting with the audience and watching the film, its like everyone already knew the characters, it's like they were all old friends and just catching up. Well, if you've read the books and seen the films, you would in a way be old friends with these characters. You could hear the audience laugh and giggle, whenever the most awkward love triangle in history (Katniss, Peeta and Gale) would get in close proximity. 

Of course we all know that Philip Seymour Hoffman passed away without finishing all of his scenes for Mockingjay Part 2. My fellow movie reviewer friend and I were talking to each other, trying to make out scenes were images of the late actor were just super-imposed. Will definitely miss this talented actor :( 

I have to say that I was a little disappointed that Game Of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie just had a small part and had little screen time in the film. Although, I enjoyed seeing her tower over everyone else in the room :P   

For a franchise that I religiously followed, reading one book after the next and seeing one movie after the other, eagerly anticipating for the next, I can't believe that it has come to an end, it's bittersweet really but my only consolation is that it was ended really well, everything comes full circle and as a fan, you can't really ask for anything else. 

Mockingjay Part 2 is now showing in cinemas and is distributed by Pioneer Films.